IN what is believed to be a first for Grays town centre, one of its leading restaurants is to host a stand-up comedy evening next week - starring a much-loved and popular local comic.

It will take place at Feast restaurant at 18 High Street and will feature Thurrock comedian and magician Graeme Matthews, who made his name on Britain's Got Talent where he made the semi-final in 2019.

The event, on Thursday, 24 March will be compered by Ross McGrane from Radio Essex and the entertainment will run from 7.30 to 10pm. Also on the bill will be comedians Kasabian and Matt Adlington.

Admission to the showcase event is £15 and tickets can be booked via this link.

Graeme Matthews, who is from Stanford-le-Hope and is a former Gable Hall student, who was already well known in the Thurrock and wider Essex area for his comedy and magic act, before he came to national attention on TV's Britain's Got Talent competition.